How to Install Wainscoting on a Ceiling

Ceilings are the single largest expanse of space in any room of the home. They are often the most overlooked, being left the flat white they were originally painted. Installing wainscoting on the ceiling can transform the look of the entire room by adding dimension and depth to the space. Nearly any type of wainscoting that can be used on walls can be used on the ceiling as well, although panels meant to cover the entire space in a repeating pattern, like beadboard, are most often used.

1

Prime both sides of the wainscoting. Primer will help prevent any moisture coming through the ceiling from staining the wainscot panels. Allow the primer to dry, and paint the visible side of the panels. Let the panels dry completely.

2

Locate the positions of the studs on your ceiling with a stud finder. When you find a stud, snap a chalk line along its length with a chalk line tool. Studs should be located about every 16 inches across the ceiling. Use a measuring tape to help you find them faster.

3

Test fit a panel in place along the edge of the ceiling, leaving a 1/8-inch gap between the panel and the wall for an expansion gap. Have an assistant hold the panel steady. Measure from the end of one side of the panel to the opposite wall. Measure from the other end of the panel to the opposite wall, and compare measurements. If they are not equal, have your assistant angle the panel on the wall until the two measurements are equal. A molding tacked up around the perimeter of the ceiling will hide any uneven gaps.

4

Mark the panel's position on the wall, and take it down. Drill pilot holes along the panel where it will be nailed to the studs. Fit the panel back into place, and nail it into place.

5

Fit the next panel into place by slightly overlapping the edge of the next panel over the first. Nail the panel into place.

6

Continue fitting and nailing the panels into place until you reach the end of the row. Cut the panel to fit on a ripsaw, and nail it into place.

7

Cut the panels to fit around any light fixtures on a saber saw. If possible, hold the panel over the fixture and trace its outline onto the panel before cutting for the most accurate cuts.

8

Nail a molding strip around the perimeter of the room to hide the expansion gap between the panels and the wall.

Things You Will Need

About the Author

Sarabeth Asaff has worked in and has written about the home improvement industry since 1995. She has written numerous articles on art, interior design and home improvements, specializing in kitchen and bathroom design. A member in good standing with the National Kitchen and Bath Association, Asaff has working knowledge of all areas of home design.